Carrying Case

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to a portable case adapted for holding handheld devices such as phones, cameras, camcorders, radios and other products as well as non-electronic devices such as flashlights. The case is supported by a selectively bendable stand which may be altered in any variety of positions to provide a support for the case and associated electronic equipment. The case may also include an elastic cord element to removably interconnect the electronic device on an exterior surface of the case during use.

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/758,473, filed Jun. 5, 2007, which is a Continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/839,601, filed May 4, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No.7,270,255, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/902,510, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,518, filed Jul. 9, 2001, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos.60/216,977 and 60/241,631, filed Jul. 7, 2000 and Oct. 19, 2000,respectively, and is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Design patentapplication Ser. No. 29/137,521, now U.S. Design Pat. D453,417, filedFeb. 21, 2001, each application or issued patent incorporated byreference in their entirety herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to carrying cases for handheld apparatusand more specifically to carrying cases having an interconnectedselectively adjustable and reversible stand to provide an apparatus forsupporting or hanging the carrying case in a plurality of positions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Handheld cases are used for any variety and number of purposes toprotect electronic devices such as cameras, camcorders and otherproducts from exposure to weather and other elements. These cases arealso used to hold products such as flashlights, cell phones, globalpositioning systems (GPS), personal digital assistants (PDA's) portableradios and other similar handheld devices (herein collectively“electronic device”) These handheld cases are typically made of leather,nylon, or other fabrics which are resistant to wear yet provideprotection from the elements. Certain cases also have the additionalfeature of providing a belt strap or other interconnection mechanism toattach the case to a user's belt or clothing. This feature prevents thecase and associated electronic device from being inadvertently lost orstolen, yet allowing a user to have their hands free for other uses. Oneexample of this type of case is a cell phone case manufactured and soldby McGuire-Nicholas which comprises a sheath or holster designed toreceive the phone, and which is interconnected to a short, rigidmetallic clip extending from the back of the sheath. Although the clipcan be used on a belt, the carrying apparatus and enclosed electronicdevice cannot be supported in a stable upright position on a flat objectsuch as a desk top. Further, the metallic clip is incapable of beingreversibly bent to either support or hang the carrying case in anynumber of positions.

Another type of holder especially designed for a flashlight is disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,542 for a “Flashlight Support Device”. Thisdevice allows a flashlight to be positioned in one of numerous differentpositions with four independently operated legs, yet is incapable ofholding and securing other electronic devices within the rigid plasticsleeve. Further, the lower end of the plastic sleeve does notindependently provide a stable base to secure an apparatus in a stable,upright position, nor provide a means for securing an electronic deviceto an exterior surface of the sleeve.

Thus, none of the existing prior art storage cases provide a means forsupporting or hanging an electronic device in a preferred position ofuse, while otherwise allowing the electronic device to be stored in asecure position adjacent a user's body. For example, to access the keypad on a cellular phone or PDA, it is preferable to have the devicesupported in a secure upright position. A further problem exists withflashlights which can be utilized in a number of different ways if thebeam of light can be oriented in a preferred direction. For example,when a user needs both hands to operate tools or other machinery, it ispreferable to have some type of case which can be used to support orhang the flashlight, yet can also be secured adjacent a user's bodyduring transportation.

Thus, a need exists for a carrying case which has a selectivelyadjustable support stand which allows the case to be oriented andpositioned in a firm upright position or hung from an object to orientan electronic device in a preferred position of use. Additionally, aneed exists for the support stand to be reversibly bendable in such adegree that it can be alternatively used as a belt clip or a supportdevice with a plurality of positions of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a portablecarrying case for an electronic apparatus with a built-in selectivelyadjustable stand which can be either supported on an object such as atable top or hung from an object. As previously stated, these electronicapparatus may include but are not limited to cellular telephones,personal digital assistants (PDA's), radios, global positioning systems,(GPS), cameras, flashlights and other similar devices. The invention isdesigned to provide a reversibly bendable support member interconnectedto a sheath or holster such that the apparatus and/or the case can beused in a multiplicity of applications. For example, the carrying casein one embodiment is designed to hold a cellular telephone. Theselectively adjustable stand can be used to position the cellular phonein an upright position on a table or desk top for hands free operation.Further, the device can be used to hang the phone from an object such asa rear view mirror or cup-holder in an automobile. The selectivelyadjustable stand may also be used as a belt clip for securing the caseto one's belt or another article of clothing when not in use. Further,the case may be secured on a belt and tilted in a preferred orientationof use while removably interconnected to a user's belt or pocket.

In one aspect of the present invention, a removably bendable supportstand is provided which may be bent in at least two distinct directionsto allow the carrying case to either be supported on or hung from anobject. In one embodiment of the present invention a bendable metallicmaterial is provided for the support stand which is preferably coveredwith a fabric, plastic, rubber or other material.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a means forsupporting the electronic apparatus on the exterior of the carrying caseto allow use while exposing keypads, buttons, speakers and othergadgetry associated with the electronic device. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, an elastic cord is interconnected on a front surfaceof the sheath to accommodate this feature. Alternatively, mesh fabricmaterials, hook and loop straps or other types of similar devices may beused for the same purpose.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a carrying casewith a reflective flap cover, wherein the interior surface of the flaphas a reflective lining. This reflective lining may be chosen from metalfoils or any other reflective fabrics to reflect a light source in apreferred direction. The reflective inner lining is preferably used inconjunction with a flashlight to deflect light similar to a lantern.Thus, the flashlight/carrying case may be adjusted using the selectivelyadjustable stand to deflect light off the flap inner lining to disbursethe light over a greater area than a typical flashlight.

It is yet a further aspect of the present invention to provide one ormore sleeves interconnected to the case for storing batteries or otherauxiliary devices. The sleeves are generally created by an elastic bandsewn or otherwise attached to the carrying case body. The elasticsleeves are typically sized for the batteries commonly used in thedevice for which the carrying case is designed to carry, although othertypes of accessory items commonly used with the electronic apparatus canalso be conveniently stored on the case.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a secondaryelastic band or other similar apparatus which is interconnected to thesupport stand, sheath, or both and which enables the carrying case to beattached to a secondary object. In the example of the flashlightcarrying case, this feature enables a user to create an adjustableheadband for holding the carrying case and associated flashlight on auser's head.

It is a further aspect of the present invention that the support memberand associated sheath and backing plate have sufficient rigidity toprovide at least three distinct points of support, i.e. from a minimumof two corners on the sheath back support and one on the selectivelyadjustable support member. Preferably, at least four distinct points ofsupport are provided, i.e., two from the corners of the sheath backsupport and two from the corners of the adjustable support stand cornersto provide a stable, secure stand that will not easily tip over duringuse. Alternatively, in one embodiment of the present invention a supportmember with two distinct legs is provided which works in operablecombination to support or suspend the carrying case and electronicapparatus.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a sheathand/or support member with a skid-resistant material such as rubber orsoft plastic which in use is in direct contact with a table top or otherplaner object to impede slipping. Thus, in one embodiment of the presentinvention a rubber material is positioned along a lower edge of thesupport member, or sheath back support.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a removablesupport stand in combination with a carrying case for use with camerasand other similar devices wherein the selectively adjustable stand maybe used as a tripod for a camera for which the case is designed. Morespecifically, the camera case can be selectively adjusted to support acamera, camcorder or other similar hand-held object in a stable,preferred position wherein a remote control or timing device can be usedto operate the camera in a “hands-off” mode. When not in use, theselectively adjustable support stand can be removed and stored in asleeve, pocket, or other similar storage area integral to the case.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a flexiblesheath made of a sewn and stitched material with a rigid backing sheetto provide sufficient support for the apparatus while positioned uprighton a planar object such as a table or desk top. As opposed to rigidplastic cases, the sewn and stitched type sheath provides flexibilityfor different sized electronic devices, and is cost effective tomanufacture.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a one-piece bendable,metallic support member is provided, and which extends alongsubstantially the entire rear portion of the sheath. Preferably, theone-piece bendable metallic support stand has a sufficient length tocomprise both a back support for the sheath and the selectivelyadjustable support member, and being bendable in a positionsubstantially midway between a first end and a second end.Alternatively, dual support legs which operate in substantial unison maybe provided with the sheath to provide a case with sufficient support tobe oriented in an upright position.

It is a further aspect of the present invention that the support memberinclude a snap, button or other similar securement device which allowsthe support member to be removably interconnected to the sheath to allowthe carrying case to be secured to a belt or other object. Preferably,the device may be secured with the use of one hand, such as with a snapon hook and loop material.

Thus, in one aspect of the present invention, a case adapted forprotecting an apparatus and providing a selectively adjustable supportstand is provided, which comprises:

a case body comprising a back support and a sheath for defining aninterior space to receive the apparatus, said sheath comprising an upperend, a lower end and opposing lateral edges positioned therebetween;

a support member having a free end, a connecting end and opposinglateral edges positioned therebetween, said support member beingreversibly bendable along substantially an entire length andinterconnected on said connecting end to said sheath, wherein saidsupport member can be maintained closely adjacent to said sheath orselectively bent to either support or hang said carrying case in aplurality of positions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is the rear elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a right elevation view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1with a flashlight held in a vertical position of use;

FIG. 6 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, wherein aflashlight is held in an angled position;

FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, wherein theselectively adjustable stand is formed to provide a handgrip;

FIG. 8 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, with aportion of a reflective flap used to provide a lantern;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 a is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 10 shownwith a flap extended upwardly to identify various pockets;

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 10 with anincorporated shoulder strap;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention used to hold a portable camera;

FIG. 15 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 14with a camera positioned on top of the case;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the an alternative embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16in an open position;

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the portable support stand usedto hold a camera as shown in a position of use;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, inapplication with a camera positioned on top of the support stand;

FIG. 20 is a securing screw for use in the embodiment shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the presentinvention shown with an elastic cord element;

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 and shown inapplication as a headband;

FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 22in use as a headband;

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention designed to hold a cell phone;

FIG. 25 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 24with an elastic cord shown in a stored position;

FIG. 26 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 with thesupport stand shown hung over an object;

FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the presentinvention designed to hold a 2-way radio;

FIG. 28 is a left front perspective view of the invention of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of the invention of FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 is a left perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 27 shownhung over an object;

FIG. 31 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention and designed to hold a cellular phone;

FIG. 32 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.31;

FIG. 33 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 31;

FIG. 34 is left perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 31 and shownin a hung position of use;

FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention, designed and used to hold a personal digitalassistant;

FIG. 36 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.35 with the flap down;

FIG. 37 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 35;

FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 35 andshown hung from an object;

FIG. 39 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention which is designed to hold a global positioning system;

FIG. 40 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 39;

FIG. 42 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 39, andshown hung from an object;

FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the present invention in use incombination with an electronic apparatus; and

FIG. 44 is a right front perspective view of the invention shown in FIG.43 with the selectively adjustable support member removed from a user'sbelt.

To assist in the understanding of the invention and associated drawings,the following list of components and associated numbering are includedherein.

# Component 30 case body 32 back support 34 Sheath 36 back support lowerend 38 back support upper end 40 selectively adjustable support 42adjustable support free end 44 adjustable support connection end 46storage sleeves 48 sheath cover 50 sheath cover flap end 52 sheath coversecured end 54 cover securement device 55 writing instrument 56reflective lining 58 Eyelet 60 interconnection mechanism 62 flashlightbulb holder 64 bendable support 66 inner support lining 68 outer supportlining 70 inner fabric cover 72 outer fabric cover 74 support edgecovering 76 elastic fabric 84 cellular phone wallet 86 cellulartelephone 88 Logo 90 wallet business card pocket 92 wallet money pocket94 nail clippers 96 Flashlight 98 shoulder strap 100 camera mountingsurface 102 mounting screw aperture 104 mounting screw 106 Camera 108mounting screw minor thread 110 mounting screw major thread 112 Case 114case cover 116 carrying strap 118 case cover securement means 120removably attached support 122 screw aperture 124 mounting platform 126elastic cord element 128 Hook 130 personal digital assistant 134 crease138 back panel 142 front panel 146 lateral surface 150 upper end ofsheath 154 lower end of sheath 160 aperture 164 support

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of thepresent invention. In general, the invention comprises a case body 30with a back support 32 and a sheath 34 interconnected to the backsupport 32. The back support 32 typically has a lower end 36 and anupper end 38 which provides rigidity and support to the sheath 34.Alternatively, a sheath 34 may be provided without the back support 32.One distinct and novel feature of the present invention is theselectively adjustable support member 40, which generally has a free end42 and a connection end 44. The adjustable support member 40 isinterconnected to an upper portion of the back support 38 in a mannerwhich allows the support member to be rotated about a point ofinterconnection with an upper portion of the back-support 38 or sheath34.

The adjustable support member 40 is bendable and positionable so as toallow selective adjustment and orientation of the carrying case to adesired position of use or storage. Preferably, the adjustable supportmember 40 is hingedly interconnected to the back support upper end 38.More preferably, the adjustable support member 40 is bendable in atleast a first direction and a second direction, and has the ability torepeatedly be bent and configured in a plurality of positions withoutdamaging the bendable material associated with the adjustable supportmember 40. It is also preferred that the adjustable support member 40 beflexible enough to be repositioned to another desired position or to itsoriginal position, i.e., reversibly bendable. Additionally, it ispreferable that the adjustable support member 40 be reversibly bendablealong at least substantially its entire length.

In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable support member 40 has asufficient length to extend substantially along an entire length of thesheath 34, and thus serves the dual role of being both a back support 32and a selectively adjustable support member 40. In one embodiment, theselectively adjustable support member 40 is used in conjunction with asewn and stitched, durable fabric material which provides someflexibility to hold different types of apparatus in the same case in acost effective manner. To enhance the flexibility, the sheath 34 may beconstructed with elastic panels which interconnect the back support 32to a front panel of the sheath 34. Further, in some embodiments whichstore electronic devices, it is preferable to have some form of apertureor opening on a lower end of the sheath 34 to allow the removableinterconnection of attachment devices such as headphones, etc.

Thus, as seen in FIGS. 5-8, the adjustable support member 40 may be bentto either provide a support for a substantially flat object such as adesk top, or be used to hang the case and associated electronicapparatus from an object such as a vehicle rear view mirror or otherobject.

Also shown in FIG. 1 is a plurality of storage sleeves 46. In thisembodiment two storage sleeves 46 are attached to the sheath 34. Eachstorage sleeve 46 is essentially a piece of elastic fabric folded toform a tube and sewn to or otherwise attached to the case body 30. Theembodiment of FIG. 1 further includes a sheath cover 48 for securing theapparatus within the case body 30.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the sheath cover 48 has a flap end 50and a secured end 52. The secured end 52 is attached to the back supporthead end 38 and can be selectively secured to the case body 30 by coversecurement means 54. The cover securement means 54 may be hook and loopclosure, snap, button or other equivalent device for selectivesecurement. Alternatively, the sheath cover 48 may be sized toaccommodate selective insertion and removal of a writing instrument 55,such as a pencil, into the sheath 34 beside the carrying case's intendedelectronic device without displacement of the sheath cover.

FIGS. 2-4 represent the front elevation, rear elevation and rightelevation views of the embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a partiallyexploded view which provides more detail regarding the adjustablesupport member 40 and the construction thereof. FIG. 3 depicts theselectively adjustable support member 40 with an interconnectionmechanism 60 for securing the adjustable support member 40 to the backsupport 32. This interconnection mechanism 60 may be any securementmeans such as a snap, hook and loop closure, such as VELCRO®, or otherequivalent device that allows the adjustable support to be maintained ina proximal relation to the case to minimize the area required to storethe case 30. More specifically, the snap or other similar device istypically used to secure the adjustable support member 40 and associatedcase body 30 to a user's belt or other similar device.

FIG. 3 also depicts a flashlight bulb holder 62. The bulb holder 62 istypically fabricated in the same manner as the other storage sleeves 46.However, in this embodiment the bulb holder 62 is attached horizontallybetween the seam of the sheath cover secured end 52 and the back supporthead end 38. The bulb holder may be used, among other things, to store areplacement bulb for a flashlight for which the carrying case isdesigned.

FIG. 4 depicts a right elevation view of the embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 shows in a partially exploded view andone possible method of forming the selectively adjustable support member40. In this view, the bendable support member 40 is housed within oneside by the inner support lining 66 and the inner fabric cover 70 and onthe other side by the outer support lining 68 and the outer fabriccovering 72. In this way, the bendable support member 40 may be formedfrom any formable material, for example sheet metal, bendable plasticsand other similar materials. The support linings 66 and 68 protect thefabric coverings 70 and 72, respectively, from wear and abrasion by thebendable support member 40. In one embodiment, the fabric coverings 70and 72 are secured together by a support edge covering 74. Thus, thefabric coverings 70 and 72, plastic linings 66 and 68, and bendablesupport member 40 are all protected along the edges. The support edgecovering 74 also provides a method of securement by stitching, adhesiveor other similar method.

With regard to the physical shape and characteristics of the selectivelyadjustable support member 40, any number of configurations could be usedfor the same purpose of providing a selectively adjustable support whichcan be reversibly and repeatedly bent in a plurality of positions. Morespecifically, the support member 40 may have a generally rectangular,square, or triangular shape, or may be comprised of two legs (as opposedto one) working in operable combination to provide a stable supportmechanism capable of supporting or hanging the sheath 34. Further, inone embodiment of the present application it is anticipated that theadjustable support member be biased to extend outwardly when pressure isapplied to a lower portion of the sheath 30, back support lower end 36,or a lower portion of the support member 40. Thus, the selectivelyadjustable support member 40 can be automatically extended upon settingthe case body 30 on a surface (not shown). Further, anti-skid materialssuch as rubber may be placed on a lower portion of the adjustablesupport member 40, lower portion of the back support 32, or lowerportion of the sheath 34 to inhibit the device from sliding whilepositioned on a table top or other similar surface.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-8, in another aspect of the present invention areflective lining 56 is provided on an interior surface of the sheathcover 48. This reflective lining 52 causes the sheath cover 48 todeflect light when used in combination with a flashlight. The reflectivematerial is generally comprised of a reflective surface such as aluminumfoil, tin foil and other well known materials which may be sewn,stitched or otherwise interconnected to the interior flap surface. Onesuch material is a metallic silver wolf grain laminated to an Osnaburgcloth as manufactured by Kline Processing, Inc. of Trenton, N.J.

FIG. 1 further shows an additional embodiment of the present inventionused in combination with the reflective lining 52, and which includes aneyelet 58. The eyelet 58 can be used in conjunction with a flashlight inthe carrying case 30 and the reflective lining 56 to create a type ofsignal mirror, for example, to be used to signal help. The user may lookthrough the eyelet 58 in the direction of the light reflected by thereflective lining 56 to verify the reflection is directed as desired.The user may also line up a target person to receive a signal with theeyelet 56 and prevent unwanted persons or animals from viewing thesignal.

FIGS. 5-8 shows the present invention in use with a typical handheldflashlight. In this application the selectively adjustable supportmember 40 is positioned relative to the case body 30 in one of aplurality of possible positions to direct a beam of light in a preferreddirection. FIG. 7 shows a side view of the alternative use of theembodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the adjustablesupport member 40 is formed so as to fit the hand of the user of thecase body 30 such that the user's hand may hold the adjustable supportmember 40 while keeping the other hand free to hold another device suchas a baton or other weapon in the use of law enforcement.

FIG. 8 shows a side view of yet another application of the embodiment ofthe present invention shown in FIG. 1. In this application, theselectively adjustable support member 40 is positioned such that thecase body in conjunction with a flashlight is held in a verticalposition. In this configuration, the reflective lining 56 of the sheathcover 48 is placed above the flashlight such that the flashlight can beused as a lantern by disbursing and defracting light over a greaterarea.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, andidentifying in greater detail some of the features discussed above. Toform some of the numerous storage sleeves 46 used in the presentinvention, an elastic fabric 76 is generally cut to a desired length andfolded to form the storage sleeves 46 secured by a tube seam. Theelastic fabric 76 has a constraining member along one of the lateralsides of the elastic fabric 76. The constraining member provides for oneend of the storage sleeves 46 to remain at some desired size such thatunwanted slippage of a battery or other accessory device does not occurthrough that respective end of the storage sleeve 46. The constrainingmember may be a thread, a cord, a wire, a staple or any other likematerial inserted in the elastic fabric 76 to limit the stretching alongat least a portion of the material.

FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment of the present invention wherein thecase body 30 is designed to hold a cellular telephone 86. As in otherembodiments of the present invention, this embodiment generallycomprises a sheath 34 designed to fit a particular apparatus. The sheath34 may be interconnected to a back support 32 with a sufficiently widelower end 36 to provide stability and inhibit the case body 30 andenclosed electronic apparatus from inadvertently tipping. Thus, it ispreferable that the case body 30 and interconnected selectivelyadjustable support member 40 have at least three distinct points ofcontact to provide a stable, non tipping base. In FIG. 10, theadjustable support member 40 has at least one distinct point of contactwhile the lower end of the back support 32 has a point of contact oneach corner. Preferably the adjustable support member 40 is wide enoughto provide two distinct points of contact, i.e., one on each corner.

FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherebythe sheath cover 48 may include a logo 88 or other distinctive design toallow the user to show support for a company, corporation or particularsports team. FIG. 11 shows the embodiment of the present invention as inFIG. 10 without the cellular phone in the sheath 34. In this view it ispossible to see alternative embodiments of the invention such as abusiness card pocket 90 formed on the outside of the sheath 34, and amoney pocket 92 formed between the sheath 34 and the back support 32.These alternative embodiments allow the user to employ the case foradditional purposes beyond merely storing a cellular telephone. Themoney pocket 92 and the business card pocket 90 may be used inapplications other than what their names would imply. For example, thebusiness card pocket 90 could easily store a thin calculator. Similarly,the money pocket 92 could be just as easily house credit cards, orsimilar items. As FIG. 11 shows, the case may suffice as an all purposewallet or purse such that the user need not carry any additionalpersonal items.

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the embodiment invention shown inFIG. 11 with the sheath cover 48 in a closed position and containing acellular telephone. FIG. 11 further shows how a flashlight 96 or otherelectronic device may be stored in a desired location in one of thestorage sleeves 46 immediately adjacent the cellular telephone.

FIG. 13 depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention shownin FIG. 12, wherein a shoulder strap 98 is secured between theadjustable support member 40 and the back support 32 by theinterconnection mechanism 60. In this way, the case 30 may be carriedwith the shoulder strap 98 over the user's shoulder, much like a purse.Alternatively, the strap could be wrapped around an object to secure thecase 30 in a desired position. In one embodiment the shoulder strap maycomprise an elastic cord or other similar type of stretchable material.Alternatively, non-stretching materials such as leather may be used.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention for usewith a camera. In this embodiment, a camera mounting surface 100 isformed by the sheath cover 48. The camera mounting surface 100preferably contains a mounting screw aperture 102 for selectivelymounting a camera to the sheath cover 48 and thus the case body 30. Inthis manner, the present invention may be used as a camera stand bypositioning the selectively adjustable support member 40 in a desiredorientation. The camera mounting surface 100 may additionally include aplate (not shown) attached to the sheath cover 48 to provide a morerigid surface for resting a camera.

FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the presentinvention showing FIG. 14 in application. As depicted, the camera 106for which the case is sized is nested upon the carrying case body 30 forhands free use. For example, with the use of a timer on a camera, thecamera may be secured to the sheath cover 48 and the associated cameramounting surface 100 by means of a mounting screw 104. FIG. 20 shows apossible embodiment of the mounting screw 104 in greater detail. In thisembodiment, the mounting screw 104 has opposing sides with two distinctsized threads. The mounting screw minor thread 108 is sized to properlyinsert into the base of the most common sized small screw receivingcameras. Similarly, the size of the mounting screw major thread 110 isselected to fit the most common sized large screw receiving cameras, andthus has multiple uses.

FIG. 16 shows yet another embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, the case body 112 is hingedly connected to a case cover 114.The case cover 114 may be selectively secured to the case body 112 bythe case cover securement means 118, which may include a snap, button,hook and loop material or the like. The embodiment of FIG. 16 is shownwith a carrying strap 116. The carrying strap 116 is generally securedto the lateral edges of the case body. The embodiment of FIG. 16,however, differs in one important aspect from the embodiments describedthus far. In this embodiment, the adjustable support 120 are removablyattached to the inside surface of the case cover 114 by Velcro® or otherattachment means.

As shown in FIG. 17, the embodiment of the present shown in FIG. 16 isshown in the open position. This case body 112 could be used to carry acamera and other ancillary equipment such as a telephoto lens. FIG. 18shows the removably attached supports 120 from the inside of the casecover 114 in application. The formable supports 120 can be positioned toform a camera stand by using two adjustable supports 120 in tandem. Bothadjustable supports 120 preferably have a central screw aperture 122such that when the screw hole apertures 122 are aligned the twoadjustable supports 120 form a mounting platform 124.

FIG. 19 shows the mounting platform 124 of FIG. 23 in application as acamera stand. The mounting screw 104 is inserted through the screwaperture 122 into the camera to provide a secure position. The free endsof the support members may be positioned to properly orient the cameraas desired by the user.

With reference to FIG. 21, the present invention may also include anelastic cord element 126 on the case body 30 of the present inventionwhich is adapted for use with a flashlight. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 21, the two opposing ends of the elastic cord element 126 areattached to the case body 30 at the base end 36 of the back support 32.The elastic cord element 126 may thus be used to form a loop with thebase end 36 of the back support 32. The elastic cord element 126 may beused to maintain the position of the selectively adjustable supportmember 40. The elastic cord element 126 may also be used in tandem withthe adjustable support member 40 to maintain the case body 30 at someposition relative to another object. The sheath cover 48 may also beplaced behind the item in the sheath 34 to prevent interference, e.g.,to prevent the sheath cover 48 from blocking a portion of the light beamfrom a flashlight in the sheath 34.

As further shown in FIG. 21, a central portion of the elastic cordelement 126 may be looped around the adjustable support member 40 tomaintain its relative connection. Additionally, a portion of theadjustable support member 40 may be bent on one end to furtherfacilitate the connection. With reference to FIG. 21, the elastic cordelement 126 may be placed in a stored position when not in use. Onepossible storage position of the elastic cord element 126 is created byforming a loop in a central portion of the elastic cord element 126 andplacing it over the adjustable support free end 42 and moving the loopto the adjustable support free end 44.

With reference now to FIGS. 22-23, one possible use of the presentinvention with an elastic cord element 126 is shown. In FIG. 22, theadaptation of the present invention with the elastic cord element 126for use as a head band is shown in a top plan view. The presentinvention in this drawing is shown for encasing a flashlight. As shownin FIG. 22, the adjustable support free end 42 may be bent to form ahook 128. The elastic cord element 126 may then be placed over the hook128 and the head of a user may be placed within the band created by thecase body 30, the adjustable support member 40, and the elastic cordelement 126. FIG. 23 shows the embodiment of FIG. 30 shown in front planview. The case body 30 may then be positioned to direct the light beamof the flashlight to user's line of sight, thus allowing for hands-freeuse of the flashlight.

Referring now to FIG. 24, in one embodiment of the present invention anelastic cord element 126 may be provided on the case to assist inmaintaining an object on an exterior portion of the sheath 34. In oneembodiment, an elastic cord element 126 may be attached to oppositelateral sides of the back support 32. Alternatively, the elastic cordelement 126 may be attached to a portion of the sheath 34. Preferably,the elastic cord element 126 is attached to the opposing lateral sidesof the back support 32 closer to the lower end 36 than the upper end 38.If a longer elastic cord element 126 is used, the elastic cord element126 may be wrapped around the case body 30 a plurality of times tosufficiently hold the stored device, e.g., a cellular telephone 86, tothe exterior of the case body 30. If a shorter elastic cord element 126is used, the elastic cord element 126 may be used to hold the storeddevice to the exterior of the case body 30 simply by moving the elasticcord element 126 to the front of the case body 30 and inserting thestored device therein. As shown in FIG. 24, the elastic cord element 126may also be used with the stored electronic device in the sheath 34 tomore securely hold the stored device in place.

Referring now to FIG. 25, the embodiment of FIG. 24 is shown in a rightelevation view. In this view, the elastic cord element 126 is placed ina position of storage around the back support 32 of the case body 30. Inthis position, the elastic cord element 126 is placed out of the way toprevent undesired snagging of the elastic cord element 126 on foreignbodies or other interferences. The elastic cord element 126 may bemaintained in this position with or without the back support 32 securedto the case body 30 by interconnection mechanism 60.

With reference now to FIG. 26, the embodiment of claim 24 is shown in aright elevation view. In this embodiment, the elastic cord element 126is used to secure an object, e.g., a cellular telephone 86, normallystored within the sheath 34 to the exterior of the case body 30. Theelastic cord element 126 may also be used to store an additional object,e.g., a note pad or other device, to the exterior of the case body 30with or without the normally stored object within the sheath 34.Additionally, FIG. 35 shows how the selectively adjustable supportmember 40, because it is reversibly bendable along at leastsubstantially its entire length, may be bent in a plurality ofdirections to accommodate the necessary usage. In this figure, theselectively adjustable support member 40 is bent to form a hook suchthat the case body 30 may be supported by an object B. Once the hookingof the case body 30 is no longer required, the selectively adjustablesupport member 40 may be bent back to its original shape and placed onceagain in a storage position or bent to form another desired orientation.

Referring now to FIGS. 27-30, numerous depictions of one embodiment ofthe present invention is provided herein. More specifically, a case fora two-way radio is shown. Likewise, FIGS. 31-34 are drawings of a casefor a cell phone, FIGS. 35-38 are drawings of a case for a PDA, andFIGS. 39-42 are drawings depicting a case for a GPS.

Referring now to FIGS. 43-44, one additional aspect of the presentinvention is provided herein. More specifically, a case designed to holda PDA or other electronic device is provided, and as showninterconnected to a user's belt in FIG. 43. As depicted, the selectivelyadjustable support member 40 may be positioned behind a user's belt,while the interconnected back support member 40 and sheath 34 areoriented upwardly in a position which allows the PDA to be used in anynumber of desired configurations which are convenient for the user. FIG.44 is a front perspective view of the carrying case and associated PDAshown in FIG. 43, with the device removed from the user's belt andidentifying the interconnection of the PDA to the exterior of the sheathby the use of elastic cords 126. As appreciated by one skilled in theart, the carrying case shown in FIGS. 43-44 can be used to carry anytype of electronic or non-electronic devices.

The foregoing exemplary descriptions and the illustrative preferredembodiments of the present invention have been explained in the drawingsand described in detail with varying modifications and alternativeembodiments being taught. While the invention has been so shown,described and illustrated, it should be understood by those skilled inthe art that equivalent changes in form and detail may be made thereinwithout departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention, andthat the scope of the present invention is to be limited only to theclaims except as precluded by the prior art. Moreover, the invention asdisclosed herein, may be suitably practiced in the absence of thespecific elements which are disclosed herein.

1. A case adapted for carrying and protecting a handheld device,comprising: a case body comprising a back panel, a front panel andopposing lateral surfaces positioned therebetween that define a sheathadapted to receive the handheld device, said sheath also comprising anupper end and a lower end; and a pocket associated with said back panelwithin said sheath, said money pocket being adapted to store at leastone of a business card, a calculator, and a credit card.
 2. The case ofclaim 1, wherein said opposing lateral surfaces are flexible and furthercomprising at least one storage sleeve interconnected to at least one ofsaid opposing lateral surfaces, wherein said sheath and said at leastone storage sleeve are both resiliently deflectable to allow theselective insertion and removal of the handheld device and to allow forthe secondary storage of an accessory device in said at least onestorage sleeve.
 3. The case of claim 2, further comprising at least onesecondary storage sleeve interconnected to said at least one storagesleeve, said at least one secondary storage sleeve comprising aresiliently deflectable material that is capable of assuming a generallytubular shape to retain at least one of a flashlight, a battery and atool.
 4. The case of claim 1, wherein said case body is further definedby at least one support member interconnected to said lower of saidsheath, said at least one support member having at least one aperturewherein removal of the handheld device is facilitated by pushingupwardly through the aperture on the handheld device.
 5. The case ofclaim 1, further comprising a cover hingedly interconnected to said backpanel and an auxiliary sleeve that is attached horizontally between saidopposing lateral surfaces adjacent to a hinged point of said cover pointof said cover.
 6. The case of claim 1, further comprising a flexible,generally cylindrical member that is adapted to secure at least one of awriting instrument, a knife and a tool that is interconnected to atleast one of an interior portion of said sheath and at least one of saidopposing lateral surfaces.
 7. The case of claim 1, further comprising acover hingedly interconnected to said back panel and an auxiliary sleevethat is attached horizontally between said opposing lateral surfacesadjacent to a hinged point of said cover point of said cover; and aflexible, generally cylindrical member that is adapted to secure atleast one of a writing instrument, a knife and a tool that isinterconnected to at least one of an interior portion of said sheath andat least one of said opposing lateral surfaces.
 8. A flexible caseadapted for carrying and protecting a handheld device, comprising: acase body comprising a back panel, a front panel and opposingstretchable lateral surfaces positioned therebetween that define aflexible sheath adapted to receive the handheld device, said flexiblesheath also comprising an upper end and a lower end, said opposingstretchable lateral surfaces each having a first edge associated withsaid front panel and a second edge associated with said back panel todefine a width of said lateral surface; at least one storage sleeveinterconnected to at least one of said opposing stretchable lateralsurfaces, said at least one storage sleeve including a first edgeinterconnected adjacent to said front panel and a second edgeinterconnected adjacent to said back panel, wherein said first edge ofat least one of said opposing stretchable lateral surfaces coincideswith said first edge of said storage sleeve and wherein said second edgeof at least one of said opposing stretchable lateral surfaces coincideswith said second edge of said storage sleeve such that said at least onestorage sleeve spans said width of said at least one of said opposingstretchable lateral surface and rests flat against said at least oneopposing stretchable lateral surface when said at least one storagesleeve is positioned in a non-deflected state, and wherein said flexiblesheath and said at least one storage sleeve are both resilientlydeflectable to allow the selective insertion and removal of the handhelddevice and to allow for the secondary storage of an accessory device insaid at least one storage sleeve; and a pocket associated with said backpanel within said sheath.
 9. The flexible case of claim 8, furthercomprising at least one secondary storage sleeve interconnected to saidat least one storage sleeve, said at least one secondary storage sleevecomprising a resiliently deflectable material that is capable ofassuming a generally tubular shape to retain at least one of aflashlight, a battery and a tool.
 10. The flexible case of claim 8,wherein said case body is further defined by at least one support memberinterconnected to said lower end and said back panel, said at least onesupport member having at least one aperture wherein removal of thehandheld device is facilitated by pushing upwardly through the apertureon the handheld device.
 11. The flexible case of claim 8, furthercomprising a cover hingedly interconnected to said back panel and anauxiliary sleeve that is attached horizontally between said opposingstretchable lateral surfaces adjacent to a hinged point of said coverpoint of said cover.
 12. The flexible case of claim 8, furthercomprising a flexible, generally cylindrical member that isinterconnected to at least one of an interior portion of said sheath andat least one of said opposing stretchable lateral surface.
 13. Theflexible case of claim 8, further comprising a cover hingedlyinterconnected to said back panel and an auxiliary sleeve that isattached horizontally between said opposing lateral surfaces adjacent tothe hinged point of said cover point of said cover; and a flexible,generally cylindrical member that is interconnected to at least one ofan interior portion of said sheath and at least one of said opposingstretchable lateral surface.
 14. A flexible case adapted for storing atleast one of a cellular phone, radio or other electronic device,comprising: a case body comprising a back surface, a front surface andopposing stretchable lateral surfaces positioned therebetween thatdefine a flexible sheath, said opposing stretchable lateral surfaceseach having a first edge associated with said front panel and a secondedge associated with said back panel to define a width of said opposingstretchable lateral surface; a flexible sleeve associated with saidopposing stretchable lateral surfaces, said at least one flexible sleeveincludes a first edge, which coincides with said first edge of saidopposing stretchable lateral surface, and a second edge, which coincideswith said second edge of said opposing stretchable lateral surface suchthat said flexible sleeve spans said width of said at least one of saidopposing stretchable lateral surface and is oriented substantiallyparallel to said opposing lateral surface when said flexible sleeve ispositioned in a non-deflected state, and extends outwardly to accept andrestrain a device for storage when the flexible sleeve is positioned ina second position of use; and a flexible, generally cylindrical memberthat is adapted to secure at least one of a writing instrument, a knifeand a tool that is interconnected to at least one of an interior portionof said sheath and at least one of said opposing stretchable lateralsurface.
 15. The flexible case of claim 14 further comprising a pocketassociated with said back panel, said pocket being adapted to store atleast one of a business card, a calculator, and a credit card.
 16. Theflexible case of claim 14 further comprising a cover hingedlyinterconnected to said back panel and an auxiliary sleeve that isattached horizontally between said opposing lateral surfaces adjacent toa hinged point of said cover point of said cover.
 17. The flexible caseof claim 14, further comprising a pocket associated with said backpanel, said pocket being adapted to store at least one of a businesscard, a calculator, and a credit card and a cover hingedlyinterconnected to said back panel and an auxiliary sleeve that isattached horizontally between said opposing lateral surfaces adjacent tothe hinged point of said cover point of said cover.
 18. The flexiblecase of claim 14, further comprising a belt clip interconnected to saidback panel.
 19. The flexible case of claim 14, wherein said flexiblesleeve is capable of resiliently deflecting to secure a handheld tool, awriting device, or a flashlight.
 20. The flexible case of claim 14,wherein said case body is further defined by at least one support memberinterconnected to a lower end and said back surface, said at least onesupport member having at least one aperture.